Moducare is a pine extract that contains sterols, naturally occurring compounds found in all plants. Sterols have been shown to enhance immune function and support the body's inflammation response.

What are sterols? Sterols are fats found in every plant, whether it is a fruit or vegetable. Chemically, sterols are very similar to the animal fat cholesterol. Animals make and use cholesterol, but plants use phytosterols.

Sterols are abundant in all plants, but because of the processing of most foods, naturally occurring sterols are leeched from plants. And even if we could eat plant foods rich in sterols, we would have to eat 500-700 grams of fresh fruits and vegetables to derive 100 grams of sterols. This makes supplementing sterols helpful.

Why are sterols 'smart'? Our bodies possess the most powerful defensive weapon, the immune system. T-cells are a crucial part of the body's immune response to foreign substances.

Sterols work by increasing the output and responsiveness of TH-1 (T-helper) cells, 'smart' cells which 'decide' what to attack and destroy. It also boosts another type of cell critical to the immune response--Natural Killer (NK) cells. NK cells work by identifying, attaching to and injecting deadly granules into harmful invaders.

Research findings and clinical studies Ten years of clinical trials at the University of Stellenbosch in South Africa have revealed that the active compounds found in Moducare are potentially effective immune supporters. One study, published in the International Journal of Immunopharmacology, showed that sterols have a significant effect on T-cells. Another experiment showed an increase in Natural Killer Cell activity when sterols were used.

What is Moducare®? Moducare® is a patented blend of plant sterols and sterolins in a clinically proven ratio of 100:1. This formulation has been found to be effective at regulating the immune system -- enhancing an underactive immune system and/or modulating an overactive one. Plant sterols and sterolins are natural substances found in all fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds. These plant nutrients have many unique health benefits. Unfortunately, we rarely get enough plant sterols and sterolins from our diets. The simplest way to get an optimal amount of these very beneficial natural compounds is by taking Moducare®.

Why is the "sterolin" such an important part of the Moducare® formulation? In nature, plants never contain sterols only. The sterols are always associated with their glucoside sterolin – a glucose molecule attached to the sterol molecule. The sterolin is easily destroyed through processing, freezing and some cooking methods. Without it, the sterol does not have the same immune-enhancing benefits.

Is there any research behind this product? Research on plant sterols has been underway since the 1920s. Dr. Patrick Bouic, Ph.D., at Stellenbosch University in South Africa, has been researching the exact combination of sterols and sterolins found in Moducare® for over a decade. There has been extensive testing and clinical trials, including double-blind, placebo-controlled studies. The work of Dr. Bouic and others has been published in international medical journals.

Can I take Moducare® with my other supplements or medications? There are no known interactions with Moducare® and any natural supplements. There is no conclusive evidence to suggest an interaction with medication. There has been an adverse event report in respect to a blood-thinning drug. An independent toxicology consulting firm assessed the report for our company and concluded that there is insufficient evidence to suggest that the adverse event arose from Moducare® use.

Does Moducare® have any side effects? When the immune system becomes balanced, some sensitive individuals may experience symptoms that indicate the body is trying to rid itself of toxins. These symptoms are temporary and may include digestive problems, rashes, headaches and fatigue.

Is Moducare® an immune "booster" like echinacea? The key difference between echinacea and Moducare® is that echinacea only stimulates the immune system, while Moducare® balances it. Echinacea is not recommended for prolonged use, or for people with autoimmune conditions. Moducare® allows the immune system to regulate itself: enhancing an underactive response and/or modulating an overactive one.

Do I take Moducare® for a few months and once my immune system is balanced, stop taking it? Moducare® is considered a daily supplement and should be taken as long as you want to aid the immune system to be balanced. Sterols and sterolins do not "fix" the immune system but provide the nutrients needed to help keep it in balance.

Is there anyone who should NOT take Moducare®? Recipients of foreign organs and tissues, including bone marrow and corneal transplants, are cautioned not to take any immune-regulating nutritional supplements. Therefore, Moducare® is NOT recommended for transplant patients. People with synthetic replacement/reconstruction will not be affected, e.g. hip, knee, breast, or pacemaker.

Are there any cautions associated with taking Moducare®? If you are pregnant, nursing, a diabetic, an organ transplant recipient or have multiple sclerosis, do not use unless on the advice of and under the direct supervision of a health care professional. To date, there have been two adverse event reports with respect to idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) and the use of sterol/sterolin-containing products. An independent toxicology consulting firm assessed these reports for our company and concluded that there is insufficient evidence to suggest that these adverse events arose from Moducare® use.

How long before I might expect to see some results? As with many natural supplements, it can take a period of time before you notice an improvement in your health. Although some people notice a difference sooner, we suggest that you take Moducare® for two to three months before evaluating whether it is effective for you.

Sandra
- November 16, 2012

Use this off and on for the past 4 years. Helps some with energy levels, and interest in doing something I ordinarily put off. Feel it helps in staying healthier and less bouts with a cold. I have gone through a whole year without a cold and feel it is due to the help
Monducare provides. ...[read entire review]

Amanda
- June 16, 2011

I took Moducare for lupus, and within 5 hours of taking the first tablet my head began to clear and I felt completely different and well.

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These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Individual results may vary.